Quraishi Responds to ‘Muslim Commissioner’ Remark: “Define People by Talent, Not Religion”

Former Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Quraishi has sharply rebuked BJP MP Nishikant Dubey for his inflammatory remark referring to him as a “Muslim Commissioner.” Quraishi emphasized that a person’s identity should be rooted in their talents and contributions, not their religious background.

“I served the nation through the Indian Administrative Service and as the Election Commissioner to the best of my ability. I believe in an India where people are recognized for their work, not their faith,” Quraishi told PTI.

What Sparked the Controversy?

The controversy flared after Quraishi criticized the Waqf (Amendment) Act, calling it a “sinister plan” by the government to grab Muslim lands. In response, Dubey lashed out, claiming Quraishi wasn’t just an Election Commissioner but a “Muslim Commissioner,” even alleging that during his tenure, Bangladeshi infiltrators were added as voters in Jharkhand’s Santhal Pargana region.

Political Backlash Against Dubey

The remark triggered outrage across the political spectrum, with leaders from different parties rallying behind Quraishi:

• Shashi Tharoor (Congress MP) drew parallels with Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous quote:
  “People should be judged not by skin colour, but the content of their character. In India today, religious and caste labels have taken over—it’s time to stand up for human worth.”
• Akhilesh Yadav (Samajwadi Party President) stated on X:
  “Dubey should not insult a former constitutional officer who has served India with distinction. His party has already distanced itself from his personal opinions.”
• D Raja (CPI General Secretary) condemned the comment as “atrocious” and accused the BJP of undermining constitutional values.
• Sanjay Raut (Shiv Sena UBT) called Quraishi one of the best election commissioners India has had since T.N. Seshan and questioned the divisive rhetoric coming from BJP leaders.
• Rajeev Ranjan Prasad (JD-U spokesperson) noted that the BJP was visibly uncomfortable and that its leadership had tried to distance itself from Dubey’s statements.

Quraishi’s Subtle Retort

Without naming Dubey directly, Quraishi posted a pointed quote on social media:

“I learned long ago, never to wrestle with a pig. You get dirty, and besides, the pig likes it.”

– George Bernard Shaw

The quote was widely interpreted as a dignified rebuke to avoid engaging in hate-fueled arguments.

Quick Highlights:

• S.Y. Quraishi rejects religious labeling, emphasizes merit.
• Dubey’s remark triggered all-party condemnation.
• Support poured in from Tharoor, Yadav, Raja, Raut, and others.
• Quraishi’s dignified clapback gained public support.
• BJP leaders distanced themselves from Dubey’s words.